The BEST Guide to Living in Sandy Springs, GA
Thinking about moving to Sandy Springs, GA? Whether you're considering relocating to Sandy Springs for work, lifestyle, or family reasons, this vibrant Atlanta suburb offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. With easy access to downtown Atlanta, a thriving local scene, and top-notch healthcare, Sandy Springs has become a sought-after place to call home.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about living in Sandy Springs—from its location and amenities to schools, safety, and real estate options. Let’s dive in!
Where Is Sandy Springs?
Sandy Springs is located just north of Atlanta, straddling I-285, the perimeter highway that encircles the city. This unique location makes Sandy Springs a true hybrid suburb—offering both a quiet, residential feel and easy access to the big city.
Commuting is a breeze with MARTA stations (Atlanta’s public transit) right in town, allowing for a quick ride to Buckhead, Midtown, and beyond. No other Atlanta suburb offers this level of public transportation convenience. Plus, with direct access to I-285 and GA-400, you can easily navigate the metro area—though be prepared for some traffic, as construction on the north corridor is ongoing.
What Makes Sandy Springs Special?
Sandy Springs offers the best of both worlds—urban energy and suburban tranquility. On one hand, you'll find tree-lined neighborhoods with spacious homes, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, residential vibe. On the other, there are modern high-rises, bustling business districts, and plenty of entertainment and dining options.
The city’s downtown area, City Springs, is a modern, master-planned district featuring the Performing Arts Center, green spaces, restaurants, and retail shops. Unlike some of Atlanta’s nightlife-heavy neighborhoods, City Springs focuses more on community events like farmers markets, outdoor movie nights, and festivals.
Things to Do in Sandy Springs
One of the biggest perks of living in Sandy Springs is its proximity to Atlanta’s major attractions, but the city itself offers plenty of things to do:
City Springs District: Enjoy live performances at the Performing Arts Center, stroll through green spaces, and check out local events.
Morgan Falls Overlook Park: A scenic spot along the Chattahoochee River, perfect for kayaking, hiking, and picnicking.
Big Trees Forest Preserve: A serene forest with walking trails—ideal for nature lovers.
Battle and Brew: A gaming-themed restaurant and bar where you can enjoy dinner while playing video games with friends.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane!
Perimeter Mall: Though technically in neighboring Dunwoody, this nearby shopping destination offers plenty of retail therapy and dining options.
Is Sandy Springs Safe?
When it comes to safety, it’s always best to consult reliable third-party data. According to NeighborhoodScout, Sandy Springs’ crime rate is higher than the national average but lower than many similarly sized cities. The closer you get to the Chattahoochee River, the safer the neighborhoods tend to be.
As with any area, it’s best to research specific neighborhoods and consult crime maps for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
Schools in Sandy Springs
If you're relocating to Sandy Springs with children, you'll want to know about the local school system. Sandy Springs falls within the Fulton County School District, which is ranked 12th best in metro Atlanta according to Niche.com.
Top-rated schools in Sandy Springs include:
North Springs High School: Rated A- on Niche and 5/10 on GreatSchools.
Riverwood International Charter School: Rated A on Niche and 7/10 on GreatSchools.
While these schools have solid ratings, if you're seeking top-tier schools, you may want to consider nearby North Fulton County, known for some of the best schools in the state.
Real Estate in Sandy Springs
The housing market in Sandy Springs offers a diverse mix of properties, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condos.
Current Inventory: Sandy Springs has a lower housing inventory compared to other metro suburbs, with only 92 homes available—56 of which are attached (townhomes/condos) and 36 detached.
Pricing:
Condos range from around $200,000 to over $2 million for luxury penthouses.
Single-family homes are in higher demand, with most priced over $1 million.
Median Home Price: While the median price is around $550,000, this is skewed lower due to the large number of condos. Detached homes typically range from $750,000 to $1 million.
Sandy Springs’ prime location and proximity to Atlanta make it a competitive and desirable market. If you’re considering buying or selling in the area, it’s essential to work with a local real estate expert.
Healthcare in Sandy Springs
One of Sandy Springs’ standout features is its access to world-class healthcare. The area known as "Pill Hill" is home to three of Georgia’s top hospitals:
Northside Hospital Atlanta: Renowned for maternity care, delivering more babies than any other hospital in the country.
Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital: A leader in heart care, cancer treatment, and orthopedic surgery.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Scottish Rite: One of the best pediatric hospitals in the Southeast, providing exceptional care for children with complex medical needs.
If you’re moving to Sandy Springs, you’ll have access to some of the best medical facilities in the region—an invaluable perk for families and individuals alike.
Is Sandy Springs Right for You?
Living in Sandy Springs offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. With its prime location, top-rated schools, vibrant downtown, and excellent healthcare, it’s no wonder this area is a top choice for those relocating to metro Atlanta.
If you’re considering moving to Sandy Springs, I’d love to help you explore your options. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the area, feel free to call, text, or email. I’m always happy to answer your questions and guide you through the relocation process.
👉 Thinking about other Atlanta suburbs? Check out my other neighborhood guides to find the perfect place for you. Let’s make your move to Sandy Springs or the Atlanta area a seamless and exciting experience!